AC Filters

Why are Air Conditioner Filters Important?

Air conditioner filters are an important part of your air conditioner system
because they prevent dust and dirt from being blown throughout your home
when the ac is on. They also prevent dust and dirt from getting into the
mechanical parts of your air conditioner and can extend the life of those
parts. Anyone with allergy sufferers, small children, or elderly relatives
living in their home should be especially careful about keeping the AC
filter clean.

Different Types of AC Filters

There are two kinds of air conditioner filters: disposable filters that
you replace each month or reusable permanent filters that just need to
be cleaned each month. Here are 7 of the most common AC filters:

Permanent Filters: Permanent filters last longer and just need to be cleaned
or washed regularly. Eventually, permanent filters still need to be replaced
when they get worn down. These filters are not recommended for high efficiency systems.

Disposable Filters: Most filters fall under the disposable filter category.
If you have a disposable filter, it is important to replace it at least
once a month. If you have pets, a lot of dust, or during the summer months,
disposable filters might need to be replaced more often.

Standard Panel Filters: These cost less than a dollar at home improvement
stores and need to be replaced monthly. Standard air filters are made
with spun fiberglass and have cardboard frames. They do not provide a
high level of protection since they just catch and filter larger contaminants.

Pleated Filters: These are a little more expensive than standard panel
filters, but they work better to capture more dust and dirt and only need
to be replaced every 3 or 4 months.

Electrostatic Filters: This type of filters can cost anywhere from $30
to $100 and they have a built-in electrostatic charge that attracts contaminants.

Electronic: This type of filter is similar to an electrostatic filter,
but it also uses a fan to trap up to 95% of particles making it more effective
than electrostatic filters.

HEPA Filters: HEPA, or High Efficiency Particulate Arresting, filters are
very efficient and trap 99.97% of dust, dirt, even smoke, and hair.

Clean Air Conditioner Filters Help Your Air Conditioner Run Efficiently

The air conditioner filter’s job is to keep dust and dirt away from
you and your family. However, if the AC filters become too dirty, the
air will not be able to get through easily and it will hurt the
efficiency of your air conditioner, forcing it to work harder to keep your home cool. Clean filters not only
keep your home cooler, but also reduce your air conditioner
yearly operating costs.

How Often Should Your Air Conditioner Filter Be Changed or Cleaned?

During the summer months, the AC filter should be cleaned or changed at
least once a month or follow the instructions that came with your filter.
The South Florida heat and humidity can take a toll on your air conditioner,
so check your filter at least once a month. Changing or cleaning the air
conditioner filter is something that you might be able to do yourself,
or you can always call Cousin's Air, Inc., we can clean or replace dirty AC filters
and check your air conditioner for any other routine maintenance it might
need. Make sure to consult with a professional before making any dramatic
changes to your AC filter type. Even if the dimensions are the same and
a filter fits it may not be the right one because there are other factors
such as load, flow, static pressure, and the MERV rating, which rates
the efficiency of the filer. There are such a wide variety of filters;
it is possible to match the wrong type without a professional technician
there to advise you.